Just like in Beijing, the Haryana government will install smog-eating towers in the NCR to fight the smoggy winters. Rampant planting of trees and reducing crop burning are also part of this move to reduce air pollution.Feb 13, 2017

Former German Vice-Chancellor Frank-Walter Steinmeier has been elected as the new German president. The Social Democrat received 931 of 1,260 votes in parliament. The German president holds little executive power but has representative duties. Steinmeier will succeed Joachim Gauck, who stepped down after serving one five-year term.Feb 12, 2017

Hamburg Airport had to be temporarily evacuated and all fights were halted after a strong odour was detected at a security checkpoint. Passengers complained about breathing difficulties and eye pain. Nine people had to be taken to hospital. Police suspect the irritations were caused by tear gas distributed via the air conditioning system. They currently believe that someone had sprayed the gas as a joke.Feb 12, 2017